Alexandros Kyziridis has issued an emotional apology to Hearts supporters after the Jambos' 4-0 defeat to Sturm Graz in the Champions League second qualifying round first leg in Austria.
The Greek forward missed a first-half sitter at 1-0 before Wouter Vrancken's side were blown away after the break. Kyziridis admits there are no excuses for the result that leaves Hearts needing a minor miracle in next Tuesday's second leg at Tynecastle.
Apology to fans
Taking to social media, the 25-year-old said: "Yesterday was a very difficult day for all of us. There are no excuses for a result like that."
"I want to sincerely apologise to every single supporter, especially those who travelled to support us away from home. You gave us your time, your energy and your belief and we didn't give you the performance you deserved."
"Thank you for standing by us even on our worst days. We feel your disappointment and we promise to work harder than ever to put things right. We will keep fighting, stay together and do everything we can to make you proud again. Thank you for always being with us."
Preparations for second leg
Meanwhile, Vrancken, who insisted after the game the tie is still alive, plans to step up preparations for the second leg by giving every player minutes in Friday night's friendly against Raith at Starks Park.
Towering forward Amadou Ba-Sy could stake his claim for a start against Sturm after coming off the bench for the final half hour in Austria. Stuart Findlay will also get the chance to press his case after being an unused sub on Tuesday having just come back from ankle surgery.
Vrancken said: "It's going to be that everybody gets the minutes, because you see also on Tuesday that you need everybody. Some players are tired after 60, 70 minutes, you need your subs also in this game, so it's for sure to give them minutes. Like Amadou, for example, he needs the minutes to get the rhythm."
